Bacon-Messenger Family Papers

Charles W. Capps, Jr.
Archives and Museum

Collection Number: M138

Inclusive Dates: 1811 – 1938

Bulk Dates: 1830 – 1882

Volume: .90 cu. ft.

Biographical/Historical Sketch

The Bacon family settled on the banks of the Big Black River near Bovina in Warren County, in the early 19th century, prior to 1817. William Bacon died in 1849 and his widow married George Messenger, who was much younger than she. After her death, he married Emily L. Fox. Upon George Messenger’s death she married Dr. George Wilberforce Howard.

The plantation, Baconhame, originally covered 4500 acres and was built directly on the Banks of the Big Black River. The River at that time was a navigable stream and steamboats plied their routes there, taking on passengers and cotton and bringing supplies to the farm. The family maintained the property until around 1900.

Scope and Content

The collection contains documents from the Bacon Messenger and Moore families. These include maps, tax receipts, bills of sale for slaves, account books, and farm records. 1811 – 1888. One 1938 newspaper clipping.